Invertible christmas tree

ABSTRACT

In one example, an artificial Christmas tree is provided which can be readily inverted and which has limbs rotatably attached to a central trunk for automatic deployment of the limbs of the Christmas tree upon such inversion of the Christmas tree. To facilitate such inversion, the trunk includes at least two trunk portions including a first trunk portion adapted to be supported above a floor and at least one second trunk portion rotatably attached to the first trunk portion, at least indirectly, through at least one rotatable coupling. The first trunk portion extends from a lower end to an upper end with the rotatable coupling located closer to the upper end than to the lower end and typically adjacent the upper end.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to U.S. provisional patent applicationNo. 62/256,577, filed in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office on Nov.17, 2015, and entitled INVERTIBLE CHRISTMAS TREE, the entire contents ofwhich is incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The following disclosure relates to artificial trees and particularlyartificial Christmas trees which can be collapsed and stored when not inuse and deployed when intended to be used. More particularly, thisdisclosure relates to collapsible Christmas trees which collapse byrotation of one portion of the Christmas tree relative to a secondportion of the Christmas tree, and associated bags to cover such treeswhen not in use.

BACKGROUND

When decorating a space, it is often desirable to include trees as partof such decorations. To allow such decorations to last substantiallyindefinitely without maintenance and allow for repeated cycles ofstorage and deployment of such decorations, it is desirable to provideartificial trees rather than live trees. An example of such decorationsare Christmas trees typically deployed during holiday seasons occurringat the end of each calendar year.

Such artificial Christmas trees are often configured to be collapsibleso that they take up a minimum of space during initial shipping andinventory before being sold, and also to allow the user to store theChristmas tree when not in use in a relatively small space and protectedfrom damage. Some such collapsible Christmas trees or other trees havelimbs which are removably attached from a central trunk. The limbstypically include further branches which extend from the limbs which canbe formed of wire or other materials with the limbs formed of wood,steel or other relatively rigid materials and the central trunk formedof wood, metal or other materials that are substantially rigid andstrong enough to handle the loads encountered by carrying the limbs.Typically, needles of an artificial nature are fastened by wire,adhesive or otherwise to the branches extending from the limbs ordirectly to the limbs themselves.

In some cases lighting is permanently fixed to the limbs, such as withlights coupled to cords and with the cords plugging into a central cordrunning up the trunk. With other collapsible Christmas trees the limbsare not removed from the trunk but rather pivot from a storedorientation to a deployed orientation. With such trees the deployedorientation is genera y perpendicular to the trunk and the storedorientation is somewhere between 45° pivoted away from horizontal to asubstantially vertical orientation parallel to the trunk.

While such pivotable limbs on Christmas trees have the benefit ofavoiding the requirement that the limbs be attached to the centraltrunk, difficulty is encountered in transitioning the limbs from acollapsed orientation to a deployed orientation. Either the limbreorienting process is highly labor intensive as each limb is adjustablypositioned, or if deployed by reorienting the trunk, requires that theentire tree be picked up and reoriented in various different ways.

This tree reorienting procedure is a particularly difficult maneuver inthat the tree must be held away from the body of the individual beforerotation. Many individuals lack the strength, arm length and dexterityto perform such a maneuver. For others, such a maneuver is dangerous toperform, presenting the possibility of injury or damage to the user orthe tree. Accordingly, a need exists for a Christmas tree or otherartificial tree which can be easily reconfigured from a collapsedconfiguration to a deployed configuration with a minimum of strength ordexterity being required for such tree deployment.

SUMMARY

With this disclosure an artificial Christmas tree is provided which canbe readily inverted and which has limbs pivotably attached to a centraltrunk for automatic deployment of the limbs of the Christmas tree uponsuch inversion of the Christmas tree. To facilitate such inversion, thetrunk includes at least two trunk portions including a first trunkportion adapted to be supported above a floor and at least one secondtrunk portion pivotably attached to the first trunk portion, at leastindirectly, through at least one pivot joint. The first trunk portionextends from a lower end to an upper end with the pivot joint locatedcloser to the upper end than to the lower end and typically adjacent theupper end.

The at least one second trunk portion has a portion thereof between afirst end and a second end of the second trunk portion pivotablyattached at least indirectly through the pivot joint to the first trunkportion. This pivot joint allows the at least one second trunk portionto pivot substantially 180° from a collapsed orientation extendingsubstantially vertically to a deployed orientation extendingsubstantially vertically, but with the first and second ends havingswapped. In particular, in a collapsed orientation the first end isabove the second end. In the deployed orientation the second end of thesecond trunk portion is above the first end.

The limbs are pivotably attached to the at least one second trunkportion. These limbs pivot between a perpendicular orientation and acollapsed orientation pivoting toward the second end of the second trunkportion somewhat away from the deployed position. Such pivoting canoccur by gravity or through manual movement of the limbs. If by gravityalone, merely rotating the second trunk portion about the pivot jointbetween the collapsed orientation and the deployed orientation allowsthe limbs to pivot from their collapsed position to their deployedsubstantially perpendicular to the second trunk portion position. Thus,in a simplest embodiment of the invention, all one need do is invert thesecond trunk portion 180° while the entire weight of the second trunkportion is supported by the first trunk portion resting upon a floor orother underlying surface.

A clasp is preferably provided to selectively secure the at least onesecond trunk portion in the deployed orientation (and optionally also inthe stored orientation) to avoid inadvertently inverting the at leastone second trunk portion after deployment thereof. Lights preferably runup the first trunk portion then transition to the second trunk portionat the pivot joint and then toward each end of the second trunk portionand out at least some of the limbs, to provide lights for the Christmastree or other artificial tree.

A wheeled base is optionally provided to further facilitate deploymentof the artificial tree where desired. A top cap is preferably removablyattachable to the second end of the second trunk portion to provide anuppermost portion of the tree. This uppermost portion can also includelights thereon with an appropriate plug to provide electrical connectionwhen the cap is coupled to the second end at the top of the deployed atleast one second trunk portion of the deployed Christmas tree.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1-7 are front elevation views of the invertible Christmas tree ofthis disclosure at various different stages from a completely collapsedstored configuration to a completely deployed and illuminatedconfiguration revealing the various steps in a method of deploying thecollapsible Christmas tree of this disclosure.

FIGS. 8-10 are details of FIGS. 3-5 revealing details of the invertibleChristmas tree of this disclosure around a central pivot joint whichallows a second trunk .portion of the Christmas tree to pivot relativeto a first trunk portion of the Christmas tree.

FIG. 11 is a detail of a portion of that which is shown in FIG. 10 andfrom a side view taken along lines 11-11 of FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 is a detail of a portion of that which is shown in previousfigures illustrating how a limb can be pivotably attached to the secondtrunk portion of the invertible Christmas tree of this disclosure.

FIG. 13 is a detail similar to that which is shown in FIG. 12, but afterinverting the second trunk portion so that the limb transitions to astored configuration pivoting away from substantially perpendicular tothe second trunk portion.

FIG. 14 is a top plan view of that which is shown in FIG. 12 furtherillustrating details of a limb according to one form of this disclosureand illustrating in broken lines how other limbs can be provided indifferent circumferentially spaced orientations from the second trunkportion of the invertible Christmas tree.

FIG. 15 is a detail similar to that which is shown in FIG. 12 but for analternative embodiment limb and limb attachment to the second trunkportion.

FIG. 16 is a side elevation view of that which is shown in FIG. 15. FIG.17 is a top plan view of that which is shown in FIG. 15.

FIG. 18 is a front elevation view of an alternative pivot joint forjoining the rotating trunk portion to the fixed trunk portion, with therepositioning of the rotating trunk shown in broken lines.

FIG. 19 is a top plan view of that which is shown in FIG. 18.

FIG. 20 is a front elevation view of a second alternative pivot jointfor joining the rotating trunk to the fixed trunk, with the rotatingtrunk shown in broken lines after repositioning.

FIG. 21 is a top plan view of that which is shown in FIG. 20.

FIG. 22 is a side elevation view of an alternative Christmas treesimilar to that which is shown in FIG. 11 showing the entire fixed trunkand rotating trunk according to a slightly different embodiment thanthat shown in FIGS. 1-11, and with limbs and branches not shown.

FIG. 23 is a side elevation view similar to that which is shown in FIG.22 but for an alternative trunk configuration.

FIG. 24 is a side elevation view similar to that which is shown in FIG.22 but for a still further alternative trunk configuration, andadditionally showing the base thereon.

FIG. 25 is a front elevation view of the Christmas tree contained withinan alternative cover for the Christmas tree, which cover is invertedwith the tree during deployment.

FIG. 26 is a side elevation view of that which is shown in FIG. 25.

FIG. 27 is a top plan view of that which is shown in FIG. 25 with limbsof the Christmas tree shown in broken lines as they are positionedcontained within the cover.

FIG. 28 is a side elevation view of that which is shown in FIG. 25 witha gap formed in the cover spread open more than would typically be thecase to most clearly show details of portions of the cover within thegap and with portions of the trunk fixed portion of the Christmas treeshown in broken lines.

FIG. 29 is a side elevation view of that which is shown in FIG. 25 witha side pouch thereof opened and with a cap portion of the Christmas treein the process of being removed from the side pouch.

FIG. 30 is a front elevation view similar to that which is shown in FIG.25, but after rotation of the Christmas tree half way from a storedposition to a final deployed position, and illustrating how thealternative cover can rotate with the Christmas tree, rather thanrequiring removal of the cover before rotation.

FIG. 31 is a front elevation view similar to that which is shown in FIG.25, but after complete rotation of the Christmas tree with the cover inplace, and showing the cover in the process of being removed by pullingdownward on the cover.

FIG. 32 is a front elevation view of a multiple pivot Christmas treealternative example embodiment of this invention.

FIG. 33 is a top plan view of that which is shown in FIG. 22 with acontour of separate sections of the tree generally indicated by circlesshown in broken lines.

FIG. 34 is a top plan view similar to that which is shown in FIG. 33,but with an upper rotating trunk having been rotated 90° according to afirst step in transiting the two pivot Christmas tree from its storedposition shown in FIG. 32 and a final deployed position shown in FIG.36.

FIG. 35 is a front elevation view of that which is shown in FIG. 32after the upper rotating trunk and a lower rotating trunk have each beenrotated 90° and before final rotation of an intermediate rotating trunkto complete the transition of the multiple pivot Christmas tree from itsstored configuration to its deployed configuration, and alsoillustrating how a cap portion of the Christmas tree is attached to anupper rotating trunk of the Christmas tree before final rotation of theintermediate rotating trunk.

FIG. 36 is a front elevation view of the two pivot Christmas tree aftercompletion of all rotations and completion of transitions from thestored position to the deployed position.

FIG. 37 is a side elevation view of a further alternative embodimentartificial tree according to this invention, featuring two pivotingupper trunk portions.

FIG. 38 is a side elevation view of the alternative trunk of FIG. 37with the upper trunk portions having been rotated to transition the treeof this embodiment from the stored configuration to the deployedconfiguration.

FIG. 39 is a front elevation view of that which is shown in FIG. 37.

FIG. 40 is a front elevation view similar to that which is shown in FIG.37, but after the beginning of the rotation process for one of the twoportions of the upper trunk portion of the tree of this embodiment.

FIGS. 41-52 illustrate alternative configurations of the pivot used toconnect the rotating trunk to the fixed trunk.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals representlike parts throughout the various drawing figures, reference numeral 10is directed to an invertible Christmas tree or other artificial tree.The tree 10 is invertible (FIG. 4) so that it can transition between anupside down stored orientation (FIG. 3) with limbs angling downwardly todecrease a width of the collapsed Christmas tree, and a deployedorientation (FIG. 5) with the limbs pivoted to an orientationsubstantially perpendicular to the trunk. The user thus need not pick upthe Christmas tree 10 at any time to convert it from its storedorientation to its deployed orientation.

In essence, and with particular reference to FIGS. 3-7, basic details ofthe invertible Christmas tree 10 of this disclosure are describedaccording to an example embodiment. The tree 10 includes a base 20 uponwhich the entire Christmas tree 10 is supported above an underlyingfloor. A fixed trunk 30 extends vertically up from the base 20. Thisfixed trunk 30 extends approximately half of a height of the tree 10.Near an upper end 34 of the fixed trunk 30 a pivot 36 is provided. Thispivot 36 rotatably supports a rotating trunk 40 thereto. The rotatingtrunk 40 preferably has a length similar to a height of the Christmastree (less the height of a cap portion 80), with the rotating trunk 40pivotably coupled to the fixed trunk 30 through the pivot 36 near amidpoint of the rotating trunk 40.

Limbs 50 extend laterally from the rotating trunk 40. Preferably, theselimbs 50 are pivotably connected to the rotating trunk 40 so that thelimbs 50 can pivot relative to the trunk between an approximatelyperpendicular deployed orientation and a collapsed orientation whichpivots toward the trunk. Thus, the limbs 50 extend substantiallyhorizontally when the rotating trunk 40 is in a final position fordeployment of the limbs 50, and the limbs 50 pivot toward the rotatingtrunk 40 when the rotating trunk 40 is rotated to a stored position(FIG. 3). Branches 60 typically extend from each limb 50. Lights 70 aretypically routed up the fixed trunk 30, out to each end of the rotatingtrunk 40 and then out the limbs 50 potentially out onto branches 60supported by the limbs 50. The lights receive power such as through apower receptacle P. A cap 80 is preferably provided which attaches to anend of the rotating trunk 40 to provide an uppermost portion of the tree10 after the rotating trunk 40 has been rotated to a deployedorientation.

More specifically, and with initial reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, detailsof accessories for the invertible Christmas tree 10 are described foruse when the invertible Christmas tree 10 is in a stored configuration.These accessories preferably include a substantially cylindrical cover 2with a diameter sized to fit over the invertible Christmas tree 10 whenit is in its stored position (FIG. 3). Typically the cap 80 can also fitinside this cover 2. A lid 4 is preferably also provided which can moverelative to the cover 2 (such as along arrow A of FIG. 2) and attach tothe cover 2, such as through a zipper 6. The lid 4 is particularlyuseful during shipping or when the invertible Christmas tree 10 is to bestored on its side. Otherwise, the 1 id 4 is not required. With thecover 2 on the invertible Christmas tree 10, the entire invertibleChristmas tree 10 can be rolled into a closet or other storage area andbe kept clean and keep the Christmas tree from damaging other objects,such as within the closet.

With particular reference to FIGS. 2-4, details of the base 20 of theinvertible Christmas tree 10 are described according to an exampleembodiment. The base 20 provides an example form of means to support theinvertible Christmas tree 10 above an underlying ground surface, such asa floor of a residential structure. This base 20 has sufficient width toprovide stability for the invertible Christmas tree 10 to prevent itfrom tipping over. The base 20 also preferably elevates lowermostportions of the invertible Christmas tree 10 somewhat above anunderlying surface. This base 20 in this example embodiment is a wheeledbase 20 including wheels 28 thereon so that the entire invertibleChristmas tree 10 can be rolled about on the underlying surface for easytransportation, such as between a stored location and a deployedlocation.

The base 20 includes a plate 22 which is preferably circular or squarein form and oriented generally horizontally. A pedestal 24 extendsvertically upward from a central portion of the plate 22. The pedestal24 is configured to be fixedly attached to the fixed trunk 30 with thefixed trunk 30 preferably extending vertically upward from the pedestal24.

Lateral portions of the plate 22 support joints 25. These joints 25preferably have legs 26 pivotably attached to the plate 22 therethrough.Thus, the joints 25 allow the legs 26 to pivot relative to the plate 22(about arrow B of FIG. 2). Wheels 28 are preferably provided at the endof each of these legs 26. The wheels 28 are preferably on casters orother swivel joints.

With such a configuration, the base 20 can have a deployed configurationwith the legs 26 extending radially outwardly for maximum stability, butthe legs 26 can be pivoted inwardly (arrow B) to provide a lesser widthand to allow the lid 4 to be closed over the base 20 and to completelyenclose the invertible Christmas tree 10 within the cover 2 when desired(FIG. 1).

While the base 20 shown herein is described according to this exampleembodiment, other bases 20 could also be utilized. For instance, thebase 20 could merely be a fixed structure having sufficient width toresist tipping of the invertible Christmas tree 10. Also, the base 2could merely be a hole in an underlying floor into which the fixed trunk30 of the invertible Christmas tree 10 would be removably mounted. Otherforms of Christmas tree stands could also be utilized to support thefixed trunk 30 and dispense with the base 20 altogether.

With continuing reference to FIGS. 3-7 and 8-10, details of the fixedtrunk 30 of the invertible Christmas tree 10 are described according tothis example embodiment. The invertible Christmas tree 10 preferablyincludes a central trunk formed of two separate trunk portions includinga first portion referred to as a fixed trunk 30 and a second portionreferred to as a rotating trunk 40. Also, a top trunk 82 is provided asa portion of the cap 80 defining a small portion of the overall trunkstructure of the invertible Christmas tree 10.

The fixed trunk 30 preferably has a height substantially half of that ofthe invertible Christmas tree 10. The fixed trunk 30 is elongate in formand can be configured such as in a solid cylindrical form or in the formof a cylindrical tube. The fixed trunk 30 is formed of substantiallyrigid material and carries loads of the invertible Christmas tree 10upon the base 20 or other underlying surface.

The fixed trunk 30 includes a lower end 32 opposite an upper end 34. Aclasp 33 is provided near the lower end 32. This clasp 33 is configuredto be removably attached to a portion of the rotating trunk 40 to securethe rotating trunk 40 in either the stored configuration (FIG. 3) or inthe deployed configuration (FIG. 5). This clasp structure is furtherparticularly shown in FIGS. 10 and 11.

The upper end 34 of the fixed trunk 30 includes a pivot 36 adjacentthereto. This pivot 36 can be as simple as a hole passing laterallythrough the fixed trunk 30 with an axle 37 passing through this hole. Inthe embodiment depicted in FIGS. 3-11, the pivot 36 is in this simpleform with the axle 37 providing for pivotable attachment between therotating trunk 40 and the fixed trunk 30. The axle 37 has a lengthsimilar to twice a diameter of the fixed trunk 30.

The rotating trunk 40 has a diameter similar to that of the fixed trunk30 and the axle 37 passes through both the fixed trunk 30 and therotating trunk 40 with the rotating trunk 40 alignable parallel with thefixed trunk 30 but just slightly offset laterally from the fixed trunk30 so that the rotating trunk 40 can rotate freely relative to the fixedtrunk 30. If desired, the fixed trunk 30 can be spaced slightly awayfrom a center of mass of the invertible Christmas tree 10 so that therotating trunk 40 can have its center of mass more closely aligned withthe center of mass of the overall invertible Christmas tree 10 formaximum stability.

While the embodiment of FIGS. 3-10 is perhaps the simplest embodimentfor the pivot 36, other embodiments of this pivot could be utilized,including those depicted in FIGS. 18-21. For instance, FIGS. 18 and 19depict front and top views of an alternate joint 136 with a bracket 138pivotably attached to the upper end 34 of the fixed trunk 30 and an endof the bracket 138 opposite the upper end 34 of the fixed trunk 30either fixed or pivotably attached to the rotating trunk 40. Rotation ofthe rotating trunk 40 relative to the fixed trunk 30 occurs by firstmoving along arrow C′, then moving along arrow C″. 180° of rotation isachieved and the rotating trunk 40 moves from being directly adjacentthe fixed trunk 30 on a first side thereof to being directly adjacentthe fixed trunk 30 on a second side opposite the first side.

In FIGS. 20 and 21 another embodiment is provided in the form of asecond alternative joint 236. An axle 237 is provided to allow therotating trunk 240, having a square cross-section, to rotate relative tothe fixed trunk 230 in the form of a generally square cross-sectionedstructure having one open side opposite the side bearing the axle 237.In this embodiment, the rotating trunk 40 has a size slightly smallerthan that of the fixed trunk 30 so that the rotating trunk 40 can rotateto nest inside the fixed trunk 30 when in one position, but pivot out ofthis nested configuration when in the second configuration after 180° ofrotation (along arrow C′ and then arrow C″ (FIG. 20)). Other embodimentsof joints or pivots could also be resorted to, to allow for pivotableattachment of the rotating trunk 40 to the fixed trunk 30.

With continuing reference to FIGS. 3-11, details of the rotating trunk40 are described according to this example embodiment. The rotatingtrunk 40 preferably supports all of the limbs 50 of the invertibleChristmas tree 10 thereon. As an alternative, multiple rotating trunkscan be provided, such as upper and lower rotating trunks pivoting froman intermediate rotating trunk to the fixed trunk (see for instanceFIGS. 32-36). This simple rotating trunk 40 has an elongate rigid formsimilar to that of the fixed trunk 30. However, the rotating trunk 40preferably has a length similar to a height of the invertible Christmastree (minus a height of the cap 80 and minus a height of the base 20 upto a top of the pedestal 24).

This rotating trunk 40 has a first end 42 opposite a second end 44(FIGS. 4 and 9). The first end 42 is configured to be below the secondend 44 when the rotating trunk 40 is in its deployed configuration. Therotating trunk 40 is configured to have the first end 42 above thesecond end 44 when in the stored configuration (FIG. 3). A port 45 isprovided at the end of the second end 44 which can receive and supportthe cap 80 thereon.

A core 46 passing through an interior of the rotating trunk 40 ispreferably hollow. Such a hollow core 46 minimizes weight of therotating trunk 40 while maintaining strength for the rotating trunk 40and also optionally provides a pathway through which electric equipmentfor the lights 70 can be routed. Slots 48 (FIGS. 12-17) are formed inthe rotating trunk 40 through which limbs 50 can interface in a rotatingfashion relative to the rotating trunk 40.

The rotating trunk 40 preferably has a center point or a point near thecenter point of the rotating trunk 40 which is pivotably attached (atleast indirectly, and in this embodiment directly) to the fixed trunk 30through the pivot 36. This midpoint is also preferably a center of massof the rotating trunk 40. Thus, the rotating trunk 40 can be freelyrotated 180° to move the first end 42 from directly above the second end44 and directly above the fixed trunk 30, to a second position with thefirst end 42 adjacent the fixed trunk 30 and directly below the secondend 44; with a center of mass of the rotating trunk 40 always remainingsubstantially aligned with the fixed trunk 30. Thus, the rotating trunk40 can be “spun” without causing instability in the invertible Christmastree 10 resting upon the base 20 or other support above a floor.Preferably, near each end 42, 44 of the rotating trunk 40 holes areprovided which can interface with the clasp 33, so that the rotatingtrunk 40 can be secured to the fixed trunk 30 in both the collapsedconfiguration and the deployed configuration.

With particular reference to FIGS. 12-17, details of the limbs 50 andbranches 60 of the invertible Christmas tree 10 are described accordingto an example embodiment. The limbs 50 could be attached to the rotatingtrunk 40 in many different ways including in fixed fashion or in afashion which is removable but not pivotable. However, most preferablythe limbs 50 are pivotably attached to the rotating trunk 40. Suchpivoting preferably allows for rotation of the limbs 50 between aperpendicular orientation (actually substantially perpendicular butpreferably slightly angled upwardly, when the rotating trunk 40 isoriented vertically) and a collapsed configuration closer to the angleof the rotating trunk 40 centerline than to perpendicular to therotating trunk 40 centerline.

Most preferably, this collapsed angle for the limbs 50 is 70° away fromthe deployed configuration for the limbs 50. Such rotation of the limbs50 is depicted by arrow E (FIGS. 12, 13 and 15). While the limbs appearto pivot upward, they in fact pivot downward after the rotating trunk 40has rotated (about arrow C (FIG. 12)) so that the limbs 50 actuallyrotate downward by gravity forces, but only when the rotating trunk 40has been rotated from the deployed configuration to the storedorientation. When this action is reversed and the rotating trunk 40 isrotated from the stored orientation to the deployed orientation, thelimbs 50 pivot in an opposite direction to the deployed configurationapproximately perpendicular to a centerline of the rotating trunk 40.

Each of the limbs 50 is preferably an elongate rigid structure with aplurality of such limbs 50 radiating from the rotating trunk 40. Mostpreferably, the limbs 50 extend in many different directions radiallyfrom the rotating trunk 40 (FIG. 14) when a complete symmetrical generay conical busy invertible Christmas tree 10 is to be provided. The limbs50 genera y each include a root 51 defining an end thereof closest tothe rotating trunk 40 and a tip 55 opposite the root 51. A hinge 52 islocated at the root 51 to pivotably attach the limbs 50 to the rotatingtrunk 40. A stop 54 is provided to prevent the limbs 50 from rotatingeither past substantially horizontal and perpendicular to the rotatingtrunk 40 when in the deployed configuration or past a collapsed angle,such as 70°, away from the deployed orientation.

In the embodiment of FIGS. 12 and 13 this stop 54 is in the form of aflange of material extending substantially perpendicularly from theextent of the limbs 50 from the root 51 to the tip 55. In the embodimentof FIGS. 15 and 16 the root 51 of the limbs 50 merely passes through aslot 48 in the rotating trunk 40 and a lower portion of this slot 48acts as the stop 54. The hinge 52 generally includes at least one axle52 or axle-like structure about which the limbs 50 can pivotably moverelative to the rotating trunk 40.

Branches 60 optionally but preferably radiate from the limbs 50 in apattern which mimics at least some natural tree or otherwise has adesirable form. Typically, needles 52 also extend from the branches 60.These needles 62 can be actual natural needles such as pine needles, butmost typically are synthetic structures such as attached by wire oradhesive to the branches 60. It is also conceivable that needles 62 canalso be directly attached to the limbs 50. The branches 60 can have agenerally planar form such as might exist on a noble fir, or might havea more bushy cylindrical form which might be provided on many differenttypes of pines. Needles 62 can also be long or short depending on thedesign characteristics desired for the invertible Christmas tree 10.

With particular reference to FIGS. 7 and 12-14, details of the lights 70are described. Most preferably, the invertible Christmas tree 10 is alsopermanently wired with lights 70. A plug 74 is provided which isremovably attachable to a power receptacle P. A cord 72 extends from theplug 74 and extends up the fixed trunk 30 to the rotating trunk 40. Atthe joint 36, this cord 72 preferably splits into two separate cords,one of which extends towards the first end 42 of the rotating trunk 40and the other of which extends towards the second end 44 of the rotatingtrunk 40.

As these cords pass the limbs 50, the cords are routed out the limbs 50and terminate at various different locations with lights 70. Variousdifferent controllers can be provided and various different lights canbe provided if desired so that a variety of different light displays canbe provided through the lights 70. The cord 72 can be routed through aninterior of the fixed trunk 30 and through an interior of the rotatingtrunk 40 (and also conceivable through an interior of the limbs 50).Perhaps in its simplest form, the cord 72 can merely be wrapped aroundan exterior of the fixed trunk 30 and an exterior of the rotating trunk40. The cord 72 can be camouflaged to have a color similar to that ofthe fixed trunk 30, rotating trunk 40 and limbs 50 (i.e., green) to helphide the cords 72.

With particular reference to FIGS. 3, 6 and 7, details of the cap 80 aredescribed, according to this example embodiment. Most preferably, tominimize an overall length of the rotating trunk 40 and height of theinvertible Christmas tree 10 when in a stored configuration, anuppermost portion of the invertible Christmas tree 10 is configured as aseparate cap 80. This separate cap 80 preferably includes a top trunk 82which fits into the port 45 in the second end 44 of the rotating trunk40. The cap 80 can thus be attached with the top trunk 82 co-linear withthe rotating trunk 40. To simplify attachment, it can occur when therotating trunk 40 has been rotated half way, or just a little more (seeFIG. 9).

Top limbs 84 radiate from the top trunk 82 with a configuration similarto the limbs 50. A bottom end 83 of the cap 80 is sized to fit insidethe port 45 for secure but removable attachment of the cap 80 to therotating trunk 40. Lowermost portions of the cap 80 typically have adiameter similar to that of the invertible Christmas tree 10 when thelimbs 50 are in their collapsed configuration (FIG. 3). Thus, the toplimbs 84 of the cap 80 need not pivot relative to the top trunk 82.However, such pivoting could take place.

Also, most preferably a plug is provided and lights are provided on thecap 80 with the plug attachable to a plug in the second end 44 of therotating trunk 40 so that the lights 70 on the cap 80 can be coupled tolights 70 on the rotating trunk 40 so that all of the lights 70 on theinvertible Christmas tree 10 can be simultaneously powered from a singlepower receptacle P. Attachment of the cap 80 to the rotating trunk 40 isdepicted along arrow D of FIG. 6.

With particular reference to FIGS. 22-24, further details of the trunkof this disclosure are described and according to slightly differentalternative embodiments for the trunk, including alternatives to thefixed trunk 30 and rotating trunk 40 (FIGS. 1-11). In FIG. 22 analternative Christmas tree 210 is shown including a fixed trunk 230 anda rotating trunk 240. A joint such as the alternative joint 136 isprovided and marked as alternative joint 236 joining the rotating trunk240 to the fixed trunk 230.

Also, a releasable fastener 250 is shown for securing the rotating trunk240 to the fixed trunk 230 both when in the deployed orientation and inthe stored orientation. This releasable fastener 250 would typicallyhave two sides which are similarly configured to grip either the upperportion 244 of the rotating trunk 240 or the lower portion 242 of therotating trunk 240. The fastener 250 could, in one embodiment, be a pairof similar “C-shaped ” clamps formed of a resilient material toreleasably hold the rotating trunk 40 in one of the two pairs of clamps.

In this alternative Christmas tree 210, the rotating trunk 240 is shownwith an asymmetrical configuration with the upper portion 244 longerthan the lower portion 242. In such a configuration the joint 236 can bespaced away from a center of mass of the rotating trunk 240, or thepositioning of limbs of different lengths and weights on the twoportions 242, 244 can be provided so that the rotating trunk 240 isstill balanced about the joint 236.

With the alternative Christmas tree 210, the rotating trunk 240 is showndisplaced laterally relative to the fixed trunk 230 slightly when therotating trunk 240 has been to the stored position, the rotating trunk240 is also slight” laterally from the rotated to the deployedconfiguration. Similarly, when the rotating trunk 240 is rotateddisplaced fixed trunk 230, but on an opposite side of the fixed trunk230. With this alternative embodiment Christmas tree 210, such anoffsetting of the rotating trunk 240 from the fixed trunk 230 is merelyaccepted as part of the design of the alternative Christmas tree 210 andthe base 220 (FIG. 24) is configured to accommodate any potentialoffsetting of the center of gravity of the overall alternative Christmastree 210 to maintain stability.

Alternatively, limbs and branches can be configured with a slightlygreater length on one side than on the other side to balance thealternative Christmas tree 210 laterally even though the rotating trunk240 is offset laterally relative to the fixed trunk 230 somewhat. Asanother alternative, the fixed trunk 230 could be attached to the base220 (FIG. 24) at a location slightly spaced from a center of the base220, or the base 220 can be configured to be asymmetrical to balance thealternative Christmas tree 210 to prevent any tipping propensity.

A further alternative Christmas tree 310 is depicted in FIG. 23. Thisalternative Christmas tree 310 includes a fixed trunk 330 pivotablyattached to the rotating trunk 340 through a joint 236. The rotatingtrunk 340 is similar to the rotating trunk 240, such that it includes anupper portion 244 and lower portion 242 which in this embodiment areshown having slightly different lengths.

Uniquely with the further alternative embodiment Christmas tree 310, thefixed trunk 330 is configured to include three separate parts: an upperpart 332, a lower part 334 and a bend 336 between the upper part 332 andthe lower part 334. This bend 336 includes upper and lower curves sothat the upper part 332 and lower part 334 remain parallel to each otherbut are offset laterally relative to each other an amount similar to thelateral offset provided by the joint 236. In this way, the rotatingtrunk 340 is aligned with the lower part 334 of the fixed trunk 330 whenthe rotating trunk 340 is in the deployed configuration. The releasablefastener 250 is coupled to the upper part 332 and is similar to thereleasable fastener 250 provided with the Christmas tree 210 (FIG. 22).The further alternative Christmas tree 310 is configured so that thetrunk is balanced and symmetrical when in the deployed configuration,aligned with both the lower part 334 of the fixed trunk 330 and the base220 (FIG. 24) to which the lower part 334 of the fixed base 330 isattached.

When the rotating trunk 340 is rotated to the stored position, in thisembodiment a somewhat less balanced configuration would result, or thebase 20 could be appropriately modified to provide stability both whenthe further alternative Christmas tree 310 is in the deployedconfiguration or in the stored configuration. Other techniques forbalancing the further alternative Christmas tree 310 when in the storedconfiguration could also be resorted to, including adding masses toportions of the tree 310 when in the stored configuration to achievebalance, or limiting rotation of some of the limbs coupled to the tree310 so that balance is maintained when the limbs pivot because some ofthe limbs pivot more than other limbs. Also, it is conceivable that thecover 2 (FIGS. 1 and 2) could be weighted and provided with a specifiedorientation so that the cover 2 would provide necessary balancing of atree 310 when in the stored configuration.

With particular reference to FIG. 24 an additional further alternativeembodiment of the Christmas tree 410 is disclosed. With the tree 410, anoffset similar to that provided with the alternative Christmas tree 310(FIG. 23) is provided. However, rather than utilizing the bend 336 (FIG.23) a coupling 436 is provided to join the upper part 432 of the fixedtrunk 430 to a lower part 434 of the fixed trunk 430. In thisembodiment, the upper part 432 and lower part 434 can each be entirelylinear, but the offset is still provided similar to that provided withthe tree 310 (FIG. 23). Other details of the tree 410 are similar tothat disclosed in the tree 310 of FIG. 23.

The tree 410 is also shown coupled to the base 220 which would typicallybe similar for each of the embodiments of FIGS. 22-24. This base 220 issimilar to the base 20 (FIGS. 1-11) except that it is shown in asimplified form without collapsibility and clearly depicting the wheelsas caster wheels which can rotate about a vertical axis to swivel andallow the tree 410 to be rolled on a flat surface easily in a variety ofdifferent directions.

The alternative trees 210, 310, 410 shown in FIGS. 22-24 can havedetails thereof selectively combined with details of the joints shown inFIGS. 18-21 and also selectively combined with details of the tree 10 ofFIGS. 1-11. Also, various different limbs and branches and lights can becoupled to trees such as the alternative trees 210, 310, 410 toconfigure a tree according to this disclosure to meet the desires of aparticular consumer.

With particular reference to FIGS. 25-31, details of an alternativecover 102 for the Christmas tree 10 are described. This alternativecover 102 generally is wider than the cover 2 of the previouslydescribed embodiment, such as to accommodate Christmas trees 10 whichhave limbs 50 which rotate less than those depicted in the previousembodiment discussed above. The cover 102 generally includes a top panel104 and a side panel 106. The top panel 104 is generally circular butcan be configured to be semi-spherical or semi-conical in form so thatit can take on a somewhat domed configuration. This top panel 104preferably is substantially complete in form except where a gap 110forms a break in the top panel 104 (FIG. 27).

The side panel 106 is generally cylindrical in form, except that theside panel 106 preferably has a slightly lesser diameter at a lower endthan at an upper end adjacent the top panel 104. The side panel 106 ispreferably open at a lower end and otherwise substantially continuousexcept where the gap 110 causes a break in the side panel 106 (FIGS. 26and 28). Handles 108 are preferably attached to the side panel 106 on afront and rear side of the cover 102. These handles 108 assist in movingthe tree under the cover 102 and rotating the cover 102 and includedChristmas tree upon the wheeled base 20.

The gap 110 is somewhat in the form of a pie shaped cutout extendingfrom upper to lower ends of the cover 102. This gap 110 is primarilydefined by two substantially planar side walls 112 which almost faceeach other but preferably are angled slightly (perhaps 5° to 15°) awayfrom each other. These side walls 112 are joined together at an innerjoint 114 close to a central vertical axis of the cover 102. The gap 110is configured so that it can fit between two adjacent limbs 50 (FIG. 27)and to allow the cover 102 to remain on the tree 10 as the tree 10 isrotated (FIG. 30) between a stored orientation and a deployedorientation. After transitioning to the deployed orientation (FIG. 31),the cover 102 is then removed.

The gap 110 provides clearance to allow the fixed trunk 30 of theChristmas tree 10 (FIGS. 1-24) to transition from one orientationrelative to a remainder of the Christmas tree to another orientationrelative to the entire Christmas tree, associated with rotation ofportions of the Christmas tree relative to the fixed trunk 30. Suchrotational clearance can perhaps best be seen with reference to FIG. 26or 28 where an upper portion of the cover 102 and contained Christmastree rotate toward the viewer out of the page with lower portions of thecover 102 and associated Christmas tree rotating away from the viewerand into the page. This rotation can also be seen in FIG. 30 where thegap 110 is illustrated by an arrow to indicate where it is actuallylocated (also in FIG. 29).

The inner joint 114 of the gap 110 includes an arch 116 which defines abreak in the inner joint 114 so that the inner joint 114 only joins theside panels 112 on an upper half of the gap 110. A lower half of theinner joint 114 below the arch 116 is open between two inside edges ofthe side walls 112. This open portion of the inner joint 114 below thearch 116 is beneficial in facilitating removal of the cover 102 aftercompletion of the rotation process (along arrow G of FIG. 31).

To keep portions of the cover 102 within the gap 110 properly positionedin spite of this open portion of the inner joint 114 below the arch 116,inner corners 118 of the side walls 112 preferably include an innerfastener 120. This inner fastener 120 is initially wrapped around thefixed trunk 30 and coupled together to keep the inner corners 118 of theside walls 112 of the gap 10 positioned where desired and to resist anytendency of the cover 102 to rotate prematurely. When the cover 102 andincluded tree are to be rotated, this inner fastener 120 would typicallybe manipulated into a detached configuration to then allow free rotationof the cover 102 and included Christmas tree (along arrow F of FIG. 30).If desired, an outer fastener 130 can be provided at outer corners 128of the gap 110 to help keep the gap 110 substantially closed. A similarouter fastener 130 could optionally be provided at corners of the sidewalls 112 adjacent the top panel 104. These outer fasteners 130 wouldalso be attached when the cover 102 is in a stored configuration andthen detached before rotation but before removal of the cover 102.

The alternative cover 102 is beneficial for larger trees, where ashorter user might have difficulty in lifting the cover 2 of theprevious embodiment up off of the tree after rotation. With thisalternative cover 102, the cover 102 is pulled down (along arrow G ofFIG. 31) after rotation of the cover 102 and included Christmas tree, sothat the user need not be required to lift the cover 102 up off of theChristmas tree. The cover 102 can later be repositioned on the Christmastree, either by reversing the cover 102 removal steps or by firstinverting the tree to the stored position and then pulling the cover 102down over the top of the inverted Christmas tree.

The alternative cover 102 includes a side pouch 140 sized to receive thecap 80 of the Christmas tree therein. An access opening 142 is provided,typically with a zipper thereon or other closure. The inside pouch 140is sized sufficiently large to allow the cap portion of the Christmastree to be replaceably positioned within the side pouch 140.

With particular reference to FIGS. 32-36, details of a two pivotChristmas tree 510 defining an alternative embodiment of the Christmastree 10 described above are described. This two pivot Christmas tree 510utilizes the same basic principle of one fixed trunk and at least onerotating trunk, but adds to the principle by providing multiple separaterotating trunk portions. With such a configuration, trees of increasedheight can be readily managed by a single user without requiring a stepladder or excessive strength. Also, a size of the collapsed tree can beminimized, such as to accommodate transport through standard doorwaysand other standard building area dimensions.

The entire two pivot Christmas tree 510 rests upon a base 520 whichconsists essentially of a rigid frame 522 having various differentelements to provide rigidity to the base 520. Wheels 528 support thebase 520 above ground and allow for simple and easy rolling movement ofthe two pivot Christmas tree 510 to a desired position beforetransitioning of the Christmas tree 510 from its stored configuration(FIGS. 32 and 33) to its final deployed configuration (FIG. 36).

The two pivot Christmas tree 510 includes four basic trunk portionsincluding a fixed trunk 530, an intermediate rotating trunk 540, anupper rotating trunk 550 and a lower rotating trunk 560. The fixed trunk530 is generally similar to the fixed trunk 30 of the Christmas tree 10described in detail above. Specifically, in this embodiment the fixedtrunk 530 includes a lower end 532 opposite an upper end 534 and isrigid and elongate in form extending vertically up from the base 520.Preferably, an offset 535 is formed in the fixed trunk 530 near thelower end 532 to assist in balancing the different portions of the twopivot Christmas tree 510 over a center point of the base 520.

The intermediate rotating trunk 540 is pivotably attached through amiddle pivot 542 to the upper end 534 of the fixed trunk 530. Thisintermediate rotating trunk 540 is similar to the fixed trunk 530 inthat it does not have limbs extending directly therefrom. Theintermediate rotating trunk 540 is distinct from the fixed trunk 530 inthat it is capable of rotating relative to the fixed trunk 530 at least90° about the middle pivot 542.

The middle pivot 542 is preferably at a center of the intermediaterotating trunk 540 to maintain balance and thus simplicity of rotationof the intermediate rotating trunk 540. As an alternative, the middlepivot 542 could be placed at different locations along the intermediaterotating trunk 540. A clasp 543 is preferably provided as part of themiddle pivot 542 which can secure the upper rotating trunk 550 and lowerrotating trunk 560 in deployed configuration relative to theintermediate rotating trunk 540 after rotation thereof (along arrows Hand I of FIG. 32). In one example, the clasp 543 can be in the form ofan open “C” clamp with the upper and lower rotating trunks 550, 560having a circular cross-section which can snap into the C-clampconfigured clasp 543.

The intermediate rotating trunk 540 includes a high end 544 opposite alow end 546. In the stored position, each of these ends 544, 546 are ata common height as the intermediate rotating trunk 540 is configured toextend horizontally (FIGS. 32 and 35). In a final rotating step (aboutarrow J of FIGS. 32 and 35) the intermediate rotating trunk 540 isrotated relative to the fixed trunk 530, and about the middle pivot 142ninety degrees until the high end 544 is directly above the low end 546.

The upper rotating trunk 552 is pivotably coupled to the high end 544 ofthe intermediate rotating trunk 540. In particular, a middle pivot 552is interposed between the high end 544 of the intermediate rotatingtrunk 540 and the upper rotating trunk 550 at a point between a firstend 554 and a second end 556 of the upper rotating trunk 550. The firstend 554 of the upper rotating trunk 550 is that portion of the upperrotating trunk 550 which is configured to have longer limbs than limbsextending from the second end 556. When completely deployed, the upperrotating trunk 550 defines a middle portion of the two pivot Christmastree 510. The middle pivot 552 facilitates ninety degrees of rotationbetween the upper rotating trunk 550 and the intermediate rotating trunk540.

The lower rotating trunk 560 is pivotably attached to the low end 546 ofthe intermediate rotating trunk 540. In particular, a middle pivot 562is interposed between the low end 546 of the intermediate rotating trunk540 and a portion of the lower rotating trunk 560 between a first end564 and a second end 566 of the lower rotating trunk 560. The first end564 of the lower rotating trunk 560 is configured to have limbs 570which are longer than limbs 570 extending from the second end 566 of thelower rotating trunk 560. The middle pivot 562 facilitates ninetydegrees of rotation between the lower rotating trunk 560 and theintermediate rotating trunk 540. After transition to the deployedconfiguration, the lower rotating trunk 560 defines a lowermost portionof the two pivot Christmas tree 510.

The limbs 570 are generally similar to those described above for variousdifferent alternative embodiments of the Christmas tree 10 (FIGS. 1-24).Branches would also typical 1 extend from the limbs 570 and lights canoptionally be provided on the limbs 570 and/or branches. Electric wiringfor such lights is preferably routed up the fixed trunk 530 to theintermediate trunk 540 at the middle pivot 512. The wiring can thensplit into two paths, one extending to the high end 544 and oneextending to the low end 546. At these joints, the wiring again splitsto extend on to first ends 554, 564 and second ends 556, 566 of theupper rotating trunk 550 and lower rotating trunk 560. Lights are thencoupled to the wiring lanes adjacent where the limbs 570 couple to thetrunks 550, 560.

A cap 580 is preferably provided which is attachable to the second end556 of the upper rotating trunk 550 to define an uppermost portion ofthe two pivot Christmas tree 510. This cap 580 would typically beattached to the upper rotating trunk 150 after rotation of the upperrotating trunk 550 and lower rotating trunk 560 relative to theintermediate rotating trunk 540 (along arrows H and 1 of FIG. 32) butbefore final rotation of the intermediate rotating trunk 540 (alongarrow J of FIGS. 32 and 35). Typically the cap 580 merely includes alower tip which can be telescopically received into a hollow bore formedcoaxially within the second end 556 of the upper rotating trunk 550. Ifrequired, electrical connections can also be made adjacent thisinterface so that lights on limbs 570 of the cap 580 can receive power.

As best seen in FIGS. 32-34, the two pivot Christmas tree 510 has arelatively short and compact form when in the stored position. A generaloutline of tips of the limbs 570 are depicted in top plan views (FIGS.33 and 34) by circular broken lines generally defining an upper treeportion 590 supported upon the upper rotating trunk 550 and a lower treeportion 600 defined by the limbs extending from the lower rotating trunk560.

In one embodiment, a final deployed Christmas tree (FIG. 36) ofapproximately sixteen feet tall can be collapsed into an approximatelysix foot tall compact package which can be readily handled andtransported by a single user. Not only does this two pivot Christmastree 510 facilitate the simple deployment of an exceptionally largeChristmas tree in a simple and fast manner, but also decorations canconceivably be at least partially attached to the two pivot Christmastree 510 before final rotation of the intermediate rotating trunk 540(along arrow J of FIG. 35) so that a user can more easily placeornaments on the Christmas tree before final rotation when at leastupper portions of the two pivot Christmas tree 510 on the cap 580 andupper tree portion 590 are not as readily accessed. At a minimum, thecap 580 can be entirely decorated before attachment to the upperrotating trunk 550 and then a single short ladder can be utilized fordecoration of the upper tree portion 590 and lower tree portion 200.

When re-storage of the two pivot Christmas tree 510 is desired, thesteps in deployment are reversed until the two pivot Christmas tree 510has been transitioned again to its stored configuration (FIG. 32).Typically, a cover is provided to protect the tree 510 in this collapsedorientation. Handles can also extend up from the base 520 to aconvenient height so that a user can maneuver the tree 510 on thewheeled base 520 without pushing directly on the limbs 570 of the tree510. Such handles are preferably either removable or collapse down tothe base 520 when not in use after the tree 510 is deployed at aparticular location.

FIG. 37 is a side elevation view of a further alternative embodiment ofthe artificial tree of this disclosure. In this alternative embodiment,an artificial tree 610 is shown. The tree 610 includes a base 620 with afixed trunk 630 extending vertically up from the base 620. At an upperend of the fixed trunk 630 a pivot 636 is provided. Uniquely, with thistree 610, two upper trunks 642, 644 are provided. Each of the two uppertrunks 642, 644 each rotate about the common pivot joint 636 to attachthe upper trunk 642, 644 to the lower trunk 630. The first upper trunk642 includes limbs 652 extending therefrom similar to limbs of previousembodiments. The second upper trunk 644 includes limbs 654 pivotablyattached thereto in a manner similar to limbs in embodiments discussedabove. Each of the upper trunks 642, 644 are configured to rotate 180°about the pivot 636. When in the stored orientation, as shown in FIG.37, the upper trunks 642, 644 are inverted and in an upside downvertically extending orientation.

The first upper trunk 642 includes a lower end 643 which is elevated inthis orientation and an upper end 641 that is lowered in thisorientation (FIG. 37). The second upper trunk 644 includes a lower end647 which is elevated in this orientation and an upper end 645 that islowered in this orientation (FIG. 37).

As depicted in FIG. 38, after rotation of each of the upper trunks 642,644 by a full 180°, the limbs 652, 654 extend outwardly somewhat and theupper ends 641, 645 of the upper trunks 642, 644 are at the uppermostposition on the tree. FIG. 39 depicts the same tree 610 but from a frontview. The two upper trunks 642, 644 are lined up with the trunk 642 infront of the trunk 644 so that only the trunk 642 can be seen.

Note that the limbs 652, 654 are configured with branches extendingtherefrom. As with previous embodiments described above. With the limbs652, 654 and branches in place the upper trunks 642-644 are obscured sothat the tree does not appear to have a dual trunk character. Also, acap would typically be provided with a single central trunk portion.This cap would attach to one of the upper ends 641, 645 of the uppertrunks 642, 644 or both.

In FIG. 40 the beginning of the rotation process has begun, with theupper trunk 642 rotated 90° (about arrow K) and half way from its storedposition to its deployed position. The upper trunk 644 has not yet beenrotated. After the upper trunk 642 has been rotated 180° (along arrow Kof FIG. 40) it will be in its deployed configuration, such as that shownin FIG. 38. The upper trunk 644 is rotated about arrow L by a full 180°to transition from its stored position to its deployed position, asdepicted in FIG. 38. Typically some form of latch (e.g. C-clamps,straps, cotter pins, etc.) would be provided along the lower trunk 630to secure the upper trunks 642, 644 in both the stored and deployedconfigurations. Other details of this tree 610 can be similar to thosedescribed above with previous embodiments.

This disclosure is provided to demonstrate example embodiments of theinvention and modes for practicing the invention. Having thus describedthe invention in this way, it should be apparent that various differentmodifications can be made to the example embodiment without departingfrom the scope and spirit of this invention disclosure. For example, itwill be appreciated that the example rotatable coupling 36, 138facilitates rotation of the rotating trunk 40 relative to the fixedtrunk 30. But there are many devices capable of providing this relativerotational movement, examples of which are illustrated in subsequentFigures, which are described in the following paragraphs.

Referring to FIG. 41, the Christmas tree 10 includes a base 20 and afixed trunk 30 that is connected to the base and extends verticallytherefrom. The Christmas tree 10 also includes a rotating trunk 40 thatis connected to the fixed trunk 30 by a pivot 36 that facilitatesrotational movement and inversion of the rotating trunk relative to thefixed trunk. The tree 10 illustrated on the left in FIG. 41 shows thatthe rotating trunk 40 is movable via the pivot 36 from a storedcondition 40′ to a deployed condition 40″.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 41, the fixed trunk has a two-poleconstruction with an arcuate connector portion 160 positioned oppositethe base 20. The pivot 36 includes a T-shaped bracket 162 having one legthat connects to the rotating trunk 40 and another portion that connectsto the connector portion 160. The connection between the bracket 162 andthe connector portion 160 permits the bracket to slide along the lengthof the connector portion and also to rotate about the connector portion.In this manner, the bracket 162 can slide along the connector portion160 to cause rotational movement and inversion of the rotating trunk 40relative to the fixed trunk 30. The bracket can also rotate about theconnector portion 160 to move the rotating trunk to a central positionrelative to the two poles of the fixed trunk, which can lend to thestability of the tree 10.

The connector portion 160 can have a round cross-section, in which casethe bracket 162 would comprise a simple cylindrical sleeve thatpermitted both the sliding and rotational movement. The connectorportion 160 can also have a shaped cross-section (e.g., polygonal), inwhich case the bracket 162 would have a mating internal surface (e.g.,polygonal) for sliding along the connector portion and also wouldinclude some sort of bearing or rotational mechanism (e.g., a sleevewithin a sleeve) for permitting the bracket to rotate relative to theconnector portion.

Referring to FIG. 42, the Christmas tree 10 includes a base 20 and afixed trunk 30 that is connected to the base and extends verticallytherefrom. The Christmas tree 10 also includes a rotating trunk 40 thatis connected to the fixed trunk 30 by a pivot 36 that facilitatesrotational movement and inversion of the rotating trunk relative to thefixed trunk from a stored condition to a deployed condition.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 42, pivot 36 includes an arcuateconnector portion 164 with opposite ends connected to the rotating trunk40 and a slide element 166 affixed to the end of the fixed trunk 30. Theconnector portion 164 extends through the slide element 166 and canslide through the slide element to cause rotational movement andinversion of the rotating trunk 40 relative to the fixed trunk 30. Theconnector portion 164 can have a shaped cross-section (e.g., polygonal),in which case the slide element 166 would have a mating internal surface(e.g., polygonal). This way, the connector portion 164 can slide throughthe slide element 166 but not rotate within the slide element.

Referring to FIG. 43, the Christmas tree 10 includes a base 20 and afixed trunk 30 that is connected to the base and extends verticallytherefrom. The Christmas tree 10 also includes a rotating trunk 40 thatis connected to the fixed trunk 30 by a pivot 36 that facilitatesrotational movement and inversion of the rotating trunk relative to thefixed trunk from a stored condition to a deployed condition.

The embodiment of FIG. 43 is similar to the embodiment of FIG. 42 inthat the pivot 36 includes an arcuate connector portion 168 and a slideelement 170. In the embodiment of FIG. 43, the slide element 170 isconnected to the rotating trunk 40 and the connector portion 168 isconnected to a bracket 172 that is fixed to the upper end of the fixedtrunk 30. The connector portion 168 extends through the slide element170, and the slide element can slide along and over the connectorportion to cause rotational movement and inversion of the rotating trunk40 relative to the fixed trunk 30. The connector portion 168 can have ashaped cross-section (e.g., polygonal), in which case the slide element170 would have a mating internal surface (e.g., polygonal). This way,the connector portion 168 can slide through the slide element 170 butnot rotate within the slide element. The bracket 172 can include asurface S that is angled or otherwise oriented so that a predeterminedorientation of the rotating trunk can be selected.

Referring to FIG. 44, the Christmas tree 10 includes a base 20 and afixed trunk 30 that is connected to the base and extends verticallytherefrom. The Christmas tree 10 also includes a rotating trunk 40 thatis connected to the fixed trunk 30 by a pivot 36 that facilitatesrotational movement and inversion of the rotating trunk relative to thefixed trunk from a stored condition to a deployed condition.

In the embodiment of FIG. 44, the pivot 36 includes a bracket 174 withan arcuate channel that receives a pin 176 connected to the rotatingtrunk 40. The arc of the channel is oriented concavely downward. Otherorientations, such as upward or sideways could also be implemented. Thepin 176 can slide in the channel of the bracket 174, to cause rotationalmovement and inversion of the rotating trunk 40 relative to the fixedtrunk 30.

Referring to FIG. 45, the Christmas tree 10 includes a base 20 and afixed trunk 30 that is connected to the base and extends verticallytherefrom. The Christmas tree 10 also includes a rotating trunk 40 thatis connected to the fixed trunk 30 by a pivot 36 that facilitatesrotational movement and inversion of the rotating trunk relative to thefixed trunk from a stored condition to a deployed condition.

The pivot 36 of the embodiment of FIG. 45 is similar to the embodimentof FIG. 44, except that the bracket 174 is connected to the rotatingtrunk 40 and the pin is fixed to the upper end of the fixed trunk 30. Asshown in FIG. 45, the arcuate channel of the bracket 174 can be orientedconcavely to the left or right. Other orientations, such as upward ordownward could also be implemented. The pin 176 can slide in the channelof the bracket 174, to cause rotational movement and inversion of therotating trunk 40 relative to the fixed trunk 30.

Referring to FIG. 46, the Christmas tree 10 includes a base 20 and afixed trunk 30 that is connected to the base and extends verticallytherefrom. The Christmas tree 10 also includes a rotating trunk 40 thatis connected to the fixed trunk 30 by a pivot 36 that facilitatesrotational movement and inversion of the rotating trunk relative to thefixed trunk from a stored condition to a deployed condition.

The pivot 36 of the embodiment of FIG. 46 a simple constructionincluding a pin 178 fixed to the rotating trunk 40 that is received in aslot 180 in the fixed trunk 30. As shown in section A-A in FIG. 46, thepin 178 can include a shaft and a head that forms an interference withthe slot 180 to retain the pin in the slot. In this configuration, thepin 178 can rotate in the slot 180 to facilitate rotational movement andinversion of the rotating trunk 40 relative to the fixed trunk 30. Thepivot 36 can include a locking device, such as a C-shaped, deflectableplastic clamp, that the rotating trunk 40 can be forced into in order toretain the tree 10 in the stored or deployed condition.

Referring to FIG. 47, the Christmas tree 10 includes a base 20 and afixed trunk 30 that is connected to the base and extends verticallytherefrom. The Christmas tree 10 also includes a rotating trunk 40 thatis connected to the fixed trunk 30 by a pivot 36 that facilitatesrotational movement and inversion of the rotating trunk relative to thefixed trunk from a stored condition to a deployed condition.

The pivot 36 of the embodiment of FIG. 47 includes a pair of engagingsemi- circular gears 182, one fixed to the fixed trunk 30 and one fixedto the rotating trunk 40. A rigid link 184, such as a metal bar orbracket, connected the respective centers of the gears 182. The gear 182on the rotating trunk 40 can roll over the gear on the fixed trunk 30,with the link 184 maintaining the engagement between the gears to causerotational movement and inversion of the rotating trunk 40 relative tothe fixed trunk 30.

Referring to FIG. 48, the Christmas tree 10 includes a base 20 and afixed trunk 30 that is connected to and extends vertically from thebase. The Christmas tree 10 also includes a rotating trunk 40 that isconnected to the fixed trunk 30 by a pivot 36 that facilitatesrotational movement and inversion of the rotating trunk relative to thefixed trunk from a stored condition to a deployed condition.

The pivot 36 of the embodiment of FIG. 48 includes a scissor mechanism186 that connects the rotating trunk 40 to the fixed trunk 30. Tofacilitate movement of the rotating trunk 40 relative to the fixed trunk30 via the scissor mechanism 186 may require that the connection(s)between the mechanism and the trunks be articulated in some manner, suchas a pin and slot connection. In one implementation (to the left in FIG.48), the scissor mechanism 186 connects the fixed trunk 30 to therotating trunk 40. In another implementation (to the right in FIG. 48)the scissor mechanism 186 is connected directly to the base 20. In thisinstance, a portion of the scissor mechanism 186 forms the fixed trunk30. Operation of the scissor mechanism 186 can facilitate rotationalmovement and inversion of the rotating trunk 40 relative to the fixedtrunk 30.

Referring to FIG. 49, the scissor mechanism concept can be used in adifferent manner. In FIG. 49, the Christmas tree 10 includes a base 20and a fixed, non-rotating trunk 30 that is connected to and extendsvertically from the base. The Christmas tree 10 also includes a scissormechanism 188 that is configured to telescope up and down the trunk 30to thereby raise and lower the lower limbs of the tree so that they canclear the base 20 and floor so that they can be collapsed.Alternatively, the scissor mechanism 188 could be configured to raiseand lower the entire tree 10 to make room for placing presents under thetree.

Referring to FIG. 50, the Christmas tree 10 includes a base 20 and afixed trunk 30 that is connected to the base and extends verticallytherefrom. The Christmas tree 10 also includes a rotating trunk 40 thatis connected to the fixed trunk 30 by a pivot 36 that facilitatesrotational movement and inversion of the rotating trunk relative to thefixed trunk from a stored condition to a deployed condition.

The pivot 36 of the embodiment of FIG. 47 includes a fixed plate 190attached to the upper end of the fixed trunk 30 and a rotating plate 192connected to the rotating trunk 40. A bearing 194 connects the platesand facilitates rotational movement and inversion of the rotating trunk40 relative to the fixed trunk 30. A second fixed plate 190 could bespaced from the first fixed plate, sandwiching the rotating plate 192and bearing 194 between.

Referring to FIG. 51, the Christmas tree 10 includes a base 20 and afixed trunk 30 that is connected to the base and extends verticallytherefrom. The Christmas tree 10 also includes a rotating trunk 40 thatis connected to the fixed trunk 30 by a pivot 36 that facilitatesrotational movement and inversion of the rotating trunk relative to thefixed trunk from a stored condition to a deployed condition.

In the embodiment of FIG. 51, the fixed trunk 30 and the rotating trunk40 are about the same length. The rotating trunk 40 is actually twotrunks, each including limbs for half of the tree, divided verticallyalong the fixed trunk line. The rotating trunks 40 can be linked to eachother at opposite ends by brackets 192 that form a snap connection withthe fixed trunk. In this manner, the bracket can maintain the tree 10 inthe stored or deployed condition, whichever is selected by the user.

The pivot 36 of the embodiment of FIG. 51 can be any pivot capable ofproviding rotational movement of the rotating trunk 40 relative to thefixed trunk. In FIG. 51, the pivot 36 can include a shaft that extendsthrough a bearing or bushing mounted centrally on the fixed trunk 30.The rotating trunks 40 can be connected to opposite ends of the shaft tofacilitate rotational movement and inversion of the rotating trunk 40relative to the fixed trunk 30.

Referring to FIG. 52, the Christmas tree 10 includes a base 20 and afixed trunk 30 that is connected to the base and extends verticallytherefrom. The Christmas tree 10 also includes a rotating trunk 40 thatis connected to the fixed trunk 30 by a pivot 36 that facilitatesrotational movement and inversion of the rotating trunk relative to thefixed trunk from a stored condition to a deployed condition.

In the embodiment of FIG. 52, the pivot 36 comprises a flexible elasticmember 194, such as a coil spring, leaf spring, an elastomeric polymer,or natural rubber. In this embodiment, the elasticity of the member 194facilitates rotational movement and inversion of the rotating trunk 40relative to the fixed trunk 30. In a rubber or elastomeric polymerconstruction, the member could have a T-shaped construction configuredto include sleeves for receiving the trunks 30, 40. In a springconstruction, the member 194 can include mechanical connectors, such asbrackets and threaded fasteners that connect the trunks 30, 40 to thespring.

In view of the foregoing, the trees and methods herein provide anartificial tree which can be easily transitioned from a collapsedorientation to a deployed orientation. For example, this disclosureprovides a Christmas tree which is easy to store in a collapsed form andeasy to deploy when to be used. This disclosure also provides aChristmas tree which can be transitioned from a collapsed form to adeployed form without requiring high strength or dexterity. Thisdisclosure also provides a Christmas tree which can be transitionedbetween a collapsed and a deployed configuration without damage to theChristmas tree. This disclosure also provides a Christmas tree which canbe readily transitioned between a collapsed and a deployed position withlights associated with the Christmas tree remaining coupled to variousdifferent portions of the Christmas tree both in the collapsed and thedeployed configuration.

This disclosure also provides a Christmas tree which can be set upquickly, including a method for transitioning an artificial Christmastree from a collapsed configuration to a deployed configuration. Theartificial tree can be inverted between an upside down storage positionand a right side up deployed position.

This disclosure also provides a cover for an artificial Christmas treethat can be inverted with the Christmas tree during set-up of the tree.This disclosure also provides an artificial tree with one fixed trunkportion extending up from a base on the ground and multiple rotatingtrunk portions that rotate at least somewhat independently to providemultiple levels of a large artificial tree when rotated into a deployedposition.

What have been described above are examples. It is, of course, notpossible to describe every conceivable combination of components ormethodologies, but one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize thatmany further combinations and permutations are possible. Accordingly,the invention is intended to embrace all such alterations,modifications, and variations that fall within the scope of thisapplication, including the appended claims. As used herein, the term“includes” means includes but not limited to, the term “including” meansincluding but not limited to. The term “based on” means based at leastin part on. Additionally, where the disclosure or claims recite “a,”“an,” “a first,” or “another” element, or the equivalent thereof, itshould be interpreted to include one or more than one such element,neither requiring nor excluding two or more such elements.

What is claimed is:
 1. An artificial Christmas tree comprising: a trunkcomprising at least two trunk portions including a first trunk portionadapted to be supported above a floor by a base and at least one secondtrunk portion rotatably attached to the first trunk portion, at leastindirectly, through at least one rotatable coupling, the first trunkportion extending from a lower end to an upper end with the rotatablecoupling located closer to the upper end than to the lower end andtypically adjacent the upper end; limbs rotatably attached to the firsttrunk for automatic deployment of the limbs of the Christmas tree uponinversion of the Christmas tree from a collapsed orientation to adeployed orientation; and a clasp to selectively secure the at least onesecond trunk portion in the deployed orientation to avoid inadvertentlyinverting the at least one second trunk portion after deploymentthereof.
 2. The tree of claim 1, wherein the rotatable coupling furthercomprises: an arcuate connector portion first to the first trunk portionand positioned opposite the base; and a T-shaped bracket having one legthat connects to the second trunk and another portion that connects tothe connector portion.
 3. The tree of claim 1, wherein the rotatablecoupling further comprises: an arcuate connector portion with oppositeends connected to the second trunk and a slide element affixed to theend of the first trunk, the connector portion extends through the slideelement and can slide through the slide element to cause rotationalmovement and inversion of the second trunk relative to the first trunk.4. The tree of claim 1, wherein the rotatable coupling furthercomprises: an arcuate connector portion and a slide element, the slideelement is connected to the second trunk and the connector portion isconnected to a bracket that is fixed to the upper end of the firsttrunk, the connector portion extends through the slide element, and theslide element is slidable along and over the connector portion to causerotational movement and inversion of the second trunk relative to thefirst trunk.
 5. The tree of claim 1, wherein the rotatable couplingfurther comprises: a bracket with an arcuate channel that receives a pinconnected to the second trunk, the pin is slidable in the channel of thebracket to cause rotational movement and inversion of the second trunkrelative to the first trunk.
 6. The tree of claim 1, wherein therotatable coupling further comprises: a pin fixed to the second trunkthat is received in a slot in the first trunk, the pin can include ashaft and a head that forms an interference with the slot to retain thepin in the slot, the pin is rotatable in the slot to facilitaterotational movement and inversion of the second trunk relative to thefirst trunk.
 7. The tree of claim 1, wherein the rotatable couplingfurther comprises: a pair of engaging semi-circular gears, one fixed tothe first trunk and another fixed to the second trunk, a rigid linkconnected the respective centers of the gears.
 8. The tree of claim 1,wherein the rotatable coupling further comprises a scissor mechanism 186that connects the second trunk to the first trunk.
 9. The tree of claim1, wherein the rotatable coupling further comprises: a fixed plateattached to the upper end of the first trunk and a rotating plateconnected to the second trunk; and a bearing connects the plates tofacilitates rotational movement and inversion of the second trunkrelative to the first trunk.
 10. The tree of claim 1, further comprisinga wheeled base is to further facilitate deployment of the artificialtree.
 11. The tree of claim 1, further comprising a top cap removablyattachable to the second end of the second trunk portion to provide anuppermost portion of the tree.